While CAGLA’s current business model generates funds for growth, additional funding would allow us to further expand our initiatives and tackle the environmental racism and healthcare inequities prevalent in “Cancer Alley” and throughout Louisiana. Currently, we receive sponsorship from commercial vendors, which supports our free conference and lobbying efforts. Additional funding would secure our non-profit’s financial footing for future endeavors.

Check out our videos, or contact us directly for more detailed information about our programs and initiatives at cagla@cag-la.org

CAGLA is a 501(c)(4) non-profit, which means we are a “social welfare organization” that engages in substantial lobbying and advocacy efforts than 501(c)(3) organizations. We also participate in political campaigns and elections, as long as their primary activity is the promotion of “social welfare”.

While exempt from income taxes, donations to 501(c)(4) organizations are not tax-deductible for the donor because of involvment in political activities.

501(c)(3) organizations are commonly known as “charitable organizations”. They include entities dedicated to religious, educational, charitable, scientific, or literary endeavors, and also organizations preventing cruelty to animals or children, or fostering national or international amateur sports competitions.

The primary advantage of 501(c)(3) status is the ability to accept tax-deductible contributions, making donations more attractive to potential contributors. However, these organizations have strict restrictions against participating in political campaigns on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office.

CAGLA, as a 501(c)(4) non-profit, operates as a social welfare organization. Our primary goal is to improve the lives of cancer patients.

This includes lobbying lawmakers for better healthcare policies, organizing public awareness campaigns, and facilitating programs that directly benefit cancer patients and survivors. However, a significant portion of our activities involve advocating for legislative change and pushing for policies that better protect and support individuals diagnosed with cancer.

CAGLA CARES, as a 527 organization political action committee (PAC), operates to influence the election of political candidates who align with CAGLA’s mission. PACs can contribute funds to political campaigns of candidates who support their advocacy efforts.

In the case of CAGLA CARES, this means we support candidates who demonstrate a commitment to improving healthcare legislation for cancer patients.

Louisiana State PACs, such as CAGLA CARES, are regulated by the Louisiana Board of Ethics, including limitations on who can donate to the PAC and how much they can donate. Donations to PACs are not tax-deductible. A summary of the Louisiana Campaign Finance Disclosure Act for PACs can be reviewed at: http://ethics.la.gov/pub/laws/pacsum.pdf

In summary, while both CAGLA and CAGLA CARES work towards the common goal of advocating for cancer patients, they do so in different ways. CAGLA focuses on lobbying, advocacy, and community programs, while CAGLA CARES focuses on influencing political elections to install lawmakers who will support policies that benefit cancer patients. They operate as separate entities to remain compliant with different sets of legal and tax regulations.

All donations made through this website (cag-la.org) go to CAGLA CARES, our affiliated political action committee (PAC). This is an important distinction because PACs like CAGLA CARES are designed to financially support political candidates who align with our mission of transforming cancer care and advancing healthcare equity.

By contributing, you’re not just supporting a cause, but strategically investing in the election of lawmakers who can effect significant change within healthcare legislation. Your donations help CAGLA CARES in backing candidates who are committed to our cause, enabling us to have a voice within the political landscape and helping us to effect the policy and legislative changes that are crucial to improving cancer care.

However, as a donor, it’s essential to understand that contributions to either CAGLA and/or CAGLA CARES are not be tax-deductible as charitable contributions. Also, while we ensure that your donations through this website are utilized to their maximum potential in advocating for our cause, they specifically go to the political action committee, CAGLA CARES, not directly to CAGLA itself. We advise you to consult with a tax professional for advice regarding your specific situation.